Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that travels through your bloodstream. It’s essential for building cells – but too much of it can be harmful to your heart.
Cholesterol comes from two sources: your body (mainly the liver) and the food you eat. It’s carried in the blood by lipoproteins, which come in two main types:
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LDL (low-density lipoprotein) – often called “bad” cholesterol. High levels of LDL can lead to a buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and heart attack.
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HDL (high-density lipoprotein) – known as “good” cholesterol. HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
The greatest risk occurs when LDL levels are high and HDL levels are low.
The good news? Regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, and routine health checks can help manage cholesterol levels and protect your heart.
In Australia, 1 in 3 women have high cholesterol, which significantly increases their risk of heart disease.
There are two types of cholesterol
High-density lipoprotein (HDL)
- Known as the “good” or “healthy” cholesterol.
- HDL carries cholesterol away from the arteries to the liver to be eliminated.
- The more HDL in your body the better protected you are against the buildup of plaque in your arteries.
- Assists in the production of Vitamin D, hormones such as estrogen and digests fats.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
- Known as the “bad” or “unhealthy” cholesterol.
- High levels of LDL can cause a buildup of plaque on the artery walls causing them to narrow which can restrict blood flow that can result in having a heart attack or stroke..